Franchises in the home decor industry are good business opportunities for creative people. The industry has a variety of niches with markets that are almost always in season. Since shelter is a necessity, the potential for finding customers is enormous. Picking a franchise is likely be the hardest part of starting this business.
Types
Match your skills and interests to a variety of home decor franchises that create style or comfort in the home. Full-service interior decorating franchises provide the opportunity to help customers with all aspects of choosing furnishings, window coverings, lighting and home accents like artwork. Some home decor franchises require skills such as interior painting, kitchen cabinet resurfacing or replacement, and bathroom and kitchen fixture refinishing. People who invest in these franchises often have already acquired the basic skills at trade school or on the job.
Features
Home decor franchises are service businesses. You can provide your services to homeowners and to people who rent or lease the property that they occupy. Many of your potential customers may have project wish lists for interior decorations and for exterior projects as well. If you plan to specialize in either, check franchise opportunities with products and services that meet your criteria and your potential clients' needs.
Considerations
You can operate many home decor franchises as a home-based business. This reduces your start-up and operating costs tremendously. If you want to operate as a home-based service business, check the zoning regulations in your area before buying the franchise. In most cases you will need to travel to the customer location. You will need reliable transportation. A vehicle with adequate space for samples and presentation equipment is also necessary.
Investment
Home decor franchise costs vary. Specialty services such as window coverings, interior painting and bathtub resurfacing or liner installation are a few of the lower-cost franchises that require less than $50,000 in initial investment. Window cleaning, hardwood floor refinishing, tile care, deck replacement services and even one full-service interior decorating franchise fall into this price range as well. Home decor franchises with retail locations, closet system businesses and franchises that target the luxury market require investments that range from $100,000 to $300,000.
Training
In addition to a proven business blueprint, many home decor franchises provide training to help you learn market your services, find clients and get referrals. If you lack business management skills or industry knowledge, look for home decor franchises that include training in your initial investment.
